Alma spent most of her adult life in Manchester, New Hampshire. She died in 1932 and as far as I can tell she led a quite ordinary life and that’s what makes her interesting.
1900s
Christmas in Väne
Today is the last day of Christmas in Sweden. January 13 is Twentieth Day Knut, when the Christmas tree is thrown out, the decorations are put away and the gingerbread house gets eaten. One last chance to come together and dance around the tree. The celebration is named by the plundering of the tree, julgransplundring. […]
Christmas in Sweden
Merry Christmas! The Swedish-Norwegian flag and a cup of coffee at the turn of the century. A doll and a book for the girl. Christmas Eve is when gifts are exchanged in Sweden.
Christmas Card 1906
A Swedish Christmas card from 1906 with a line from the still popular song “Now it’s Christmas again.” Chain dances have been a part of Christmas celebrations since at least the 17th century.
Julhalm
All is set for Christmas! The traditional Swedish Christmas straw on the floors (julhalm) must have brought welcome warmth to the cottages. In the middle of the room is the Yule Goat, the bringer of gifts before Santa. From Hudene Parish, Älvsborg County in 1903.
Sitting as a tailor
Tailor meister Ivan Larsson on his table in Ransäter Parish, Värmland 1906. The Swedish expression for sitting crossed-legged is still sitting [as a] tailor.